Primary Phase Teaching Assistant at QEGS, Raja Aslam, has completed his goal of running a marathon and raised over £6,000 for the Penny Appeal. Mr Aslam ran the 26.2 miles in October around Blackburn and the surrounding areas, after the event in London was cancelled earlier this year.
Although disappointed to have missed out on the full London Marathon experience back in April, Raja was determined to build upon the success of his Ramadan running challenge to raise as much money as possible for charity. As he came to the end of his mammoth challenge, local families were on the street to cheer him across the finish line.
Raja added: “I’m very proud to have completed my first ever marathon and all was going well until Mile 18. I then got cramp in four different parts of my legs but I was determined to complete the run. The celebrations at the finish line were a lovely surprise from my local community and made it all worthwhile! It was a moment full of love, emotions and happiness and is something I will never forget!”
Now at 96% of his £6500 goal, Raja is hoping to reach the target so that two new wells can be built in Africa to give communities access to fresh, clean water.
To support Raja’s fundraising, please click here.